Hé Tún Yú Gān Yóu (Pufferfish Liver Oil) is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is the oil rendered from the liver of Fugu ocellatus (Osbeck), Fugu vermicularis (Temminck et Schlegel), Fugu obscurus (Abe), and other related species belonging to the family Tetraodontidae. This medicinal material was first recorded in Liaoning Medicine.

Efficacy & Actions

Reduces swelling, detoxifies, disperses nodules, relieves pain, and kills parasites.

Indications

Indicated for scrofula (cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis), boils and furuncles, undefined toxic swellings, and chronic skin ulcers.

Modern Pharmacology

Analgesic effects: Animal experiments have shown significant analgesic effects. Antitumor effects: Animal experiments have shown tumor-inhibitory effects. Immunoenhancing effects: Detoxified liver oil has shown certain immunoenhancing effects. Wound healing effects: External application has shown effects in reducing swelling, healing wounds, and promoting ulcer repair. Anti-inflammatory effects: Shows good therapeutic effects on skin conditions such as neurodermatitis, eczema, and chronic ulcers.

Ingredients

Polyunsaturated fatty acids: Rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Trace components: Vitamin A and others. Tetrodotoxin (TTX): The liver contains a relatively high amount of tetrodotoxin, which is a non-protein, low-molecular-weight, highly active neurotoxin.

Usage & Dosage

For external use: apply an appropriate amount topically to the affected area. Prepared as oil gauze strips: apply to the wound surface or use for sinus tract drainage. Cover with sterile gauze and secure with a bandage. Change the dressing every 1–2 days.

Contraindications

Strictly forbidden for internal use—the pufferfish liver contains highly toxic substances; ingestion may cause severe poisoning or even death. Should only be used under the guidance of a qualified physician. Self-collection and handling are strictly prohibited. Contraindicated in those allergic to this product.

Selected Formulas

For cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis (Qingdao Chinese Herbal Medicine Manual) Take pufferfish liver, extract the oil, and apply externally to the affected area. For boils, furuncles, and unnamed toxic swellings (Qingdao Chinese Herbal Medicine Manual) Take pufferfish liver, extract the oil, and apply to the affected area. For ruptured tuberculous lymphadenitis and chronic skin ulcers (empirical formula) Take an appropriate amount of pufferfish liver, process it according to the preparation method to make oil‑soaked gauze strips, and apply externally to the wound or use for sinus tract drainage.

Medicinal Parts

Oil rendered from the liver.

Selection & Storage

The finished product should be stored in a sealed container, clearly labeled with a highly toxic warning sign, and kept in a safe place out of reach of children. Do not store together with food or commonly used medicines.